Jung Hae-in has become the talk of the town, seemingly appearing everywhere, from hit dramas to major films. With a growing fanbase, his captivating performances and undeniable charisma have solidified his status as one of Korea’s top actors. From giving audiences the infamous second-lead syndrome in While You Were Sleeping to impressing with his action-packed roles in D.P. and Snowdrop, Jung Hae-in is proving that he is not just a pretty face, but a versatile actor capable of embodying any role thrown his way. His current drama, Love Next Door, alongside Jung So-min, has fans swooning with its perfect blend of romance and comedy, further showcasing his range.
As fans eagerly await his latest film, I The Executioner (Veteran 2), hitting theatres tomorrow, it’s worth mentioning that the film had already garnered attention when it premiered at the prestigious Midnight Screenings section of the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The movie received a resounding 10-minute standing ovation from the audience, cementing Jung Hae-in’s status as a rising star on the global stage. In anticipation of his latest release, let’s take a closer look at five of his best films that have defined his career so far.
Best Jung Hae-in Movies That Highlight His Versatility and Charm
Tune in for Love
This 2019 romantic melodrama, directed by Jung Ji-woo, is a heartwarming film that pairs Jung Hae-in with the talented Kim Go-eun. Set in the backdrop of South Korea during the late 1990s, Tune in for Love tells the story of two people whose lives are intertwined through chance encounters, missed connections, and their shared love for a radio show.
He plays Hyun-woo, a mysterious and introspective young man with a troubled past. His chemistry with Kim Go-eun is palpable, and the subtle way in which he conveys the complexities of his character is a testament to his skill as an actor. What makes this movie so special is its nostalgic atmosphere, combined with an emotional love story that tugs at the heartstrings. His performance is both tender and nuanced, proving once again that he is capable of delivering depth and sensitivity in romantic roles.
Start-Up
In Start-Up, Jung Hae-in switches gears to portray a completely different character. Directed by Choi Jeong-yeol, this action-comedy film takes Jung away from his usual soft-hearted roles and thrusts him into the gritty, often chaotic world of two young men who dream of making it big. Jung Hae-in plays the role of Tae-gil, a restless and rebellious young man who, along with his best friend Sang-pil (played by Ma Dong-seok), embarks on a journey filled with odd jobs and dangerous encounters.
In this film, his portrayal of Tae-gil is energetic, brimming with youthful determination, and laced with moments of comedy. His transformation into this reckless character showcases his versatility, proving that he can handle both the emotional weight of a romantic lead and the physicality required in action-packed sequences. The dynamic between Hae-in and Dong-seok is one of the highlights, creating a bromance that adds humour and heart to the film.
Unframed
Unframed is a special project that truly stands out in Jung Hae-in’s filmography. In this movie, he portrays Park Chan-yeong, a young man navigating the struggles and realities of adulthood specifically in the segment titled Blue Happiness, directed by Park Jung-min. This anthology film focuses on ordinary people facing personal and societal challenges, and Chan-yeong’s story centres on the emotional toll of financial burdens and societal expectations.
Jung’s portrayal of Park Chan-yeong is understated yet powerful, capturing the internal conflict of a man grappling with feelings of inadequacy, frustration, and the pressures of modern life. His ability to bring out the subtle nuances of his character makes his performance deeply relatable. The role allowed Jung Hae-in to showcase his skill in conveying complex emotions through quiet, introspective moments, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.
The Age of Blood
For fans of historical action films, The Age of Blood offers Jung Hae-in in one of his more physically demanding roles. Set during the Joseon Dynasty, the film follows Kim Ho (played by Jung Hae-in), a royal guard who becomes embroiled in a treasonous plot. Directed by Kim Hong-sun, this martial arts-heavy film sees Jung Hae-in showing off his action star potential, performing intricate sword fights and intense combat scenes.
What’s remarkable about Jung’s performance in this movie is his ability to bring depth to a character caught in the crossfire of political intrigue. His portrayal of Kim Ho is filled with intensity, loyalty, and a quiet strength that resonates throughout the film. This role pushed Jung beyond his usual soft-spoken demeanour, proving that he could handle physically challenging roles while still maintaining emotional depth.
The King’s Case Note
The King’s Case Note is a unique blend of historical comedy and mystery, and it features Jung Hae-in in a supporting role that adds an element of charm to the film. Directed by Moon Hyun-sung, the movie stars Lee Sun-kyun as King Yejong and Ahn Jae-hong as his loyal scribe, who together solve mysteries and uncover conspiracies within the royal court.
Though Hae-in plays a smaller role in this film, his character adds a lighthearted dynamic to the story. His youthful exuberance and comedic timing provide a delightful contrast to the more serious aspects of the film. This movie allowed Jung to flex his comedic muscles, showing that he can be just as captivating in lighter, more humorous roles.
Let us know in the comments below which Jung Hae-in shows have been your favourite and made you his fan!